PSS Chairman Erick Thohir has previously stated that three new naturalized players, namely Emil Audero, Joey Pelupessy, and Dean James, must be registered with FIFA by March 10 for the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches against Australia (March 20) and Bahrain (March 25). “We will register with FIFA on the 7th, 8th, or 10th. As long as it’s between the 7th and 10th, if it’s later than the 10th, they cannot be registered,” he said. Erick mentioned that the three naturalized players are needed to strengthen Indonesia’s squad, especially for the remaining four matches in the third round of the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign in the Asian zone. Due to the lengthy process, Erick cannot guarantee that the three players will be able to strengthen Indonesia against Australia and Bahrain.
